Transcatheter angioplasty for acquired pulmonary vein stenosis after radiofrequency ablation

Role of Computed Tomography in Cardiac Electrophysiology

With the increasing prevalence of arrhythmias, the use of electrophysiology (EP) procedures has increased. Recent advancements in computed tomography (CT) technology have expanded its use in pre-assessments and post-assessments of EP procedures. CT provides high-resolution images, is noninvasive, and is widely available. This article highlights the strengths and weaknesses of cardiac CT in EP.

Safety and efficacy of balloon angioplasty compared to stent-based-strategies with pulmonary vein stenosis: A systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Pulmonary vein stenosis (PVS) is an uncommon but known cause of morbidity and mortality in adults and children and can be managed with percutaneous re-vascularization strategies of pulmonary vein balloon angioplasty (PBA) or pulmonary vein stent implantation (PSI).

AIM

To study the safety and efficacy outcomes of PBA vs PSI in all patient categories with PVS.

METHODS

We performed a literature search of all studies comparing outcomes of patients evaluated by PBA vs PSI for PVS. We selected all published studies comparing PBA vs PSI for PVS with reported outcomes of restenosis and procedure-related complications in all patient categories. In adults, PVS following atrial fibrillation ablation and in children PVS related to congenital etiology or post-procedural PVS following total or partial anomalous pulmonary venous return repair were included. The patient-centered outcomes were risk of restenosis requiring re-intervention and procedural-related complications. The meta-analysis was performed by computing odds ratios (ORs) using the random effects model based on underlying statistical heterogeneity.

RESULTS

Eight observational studies treating 768 severe PVS in 487 patients met our inclusion criteria. The age range of patients was 6 months to 70 years and 67% were males. The primary outcome of the re-stenosis requiring re-intervention occurred in 196 of 325 veins in the PBA group and 111 of 443 veins in the PSI group. Compared to PSI, PBA was associated with a significantly increased risk of re-stenosis (OR 2.91, 95%CI: 1.15-7.37, P = 0.025, I² = 79.2%). Secondary outcomes of the procedure-related complications occurred in 7 of 122 patients in the PBA group and 6 of 69 in the PSI group. There were no statistically significant differences in the safety outcomes between the two groups (OR: 0.94, 95%CI: 0.23-3.76, P = 0.929), I² = 0.0%).

CONCLUSION

Across all patient categories with PVS, PSI is associated with reduced risk of re-intervention and is as safe as PBA and should be considered first-line therapy for PVS.

Transcatheter Recanalization of Atretic Pulmonary Veins in Infants and Children

BACKGROUND

Pulmonary vein stenosis is a progressive disease associated with a high rate of mortality in children. If left untreated, myofibroblastic proliferation can lead to pulmonary vein atresia (PVA). In our experience, transcatheter recanalization has emerged as a favorable interventional option. We sought to determine the acute success rate of recanalization of atretic pulmonary veins and mid-term outcomes of individual veins after recanalization.

METHODS

We reviewed all patients with PVA at our institution between 2008 and 2020 diagnosed by either catheterization or cardiac computed tomography. All veins with successful recanalization were reviewed and procedural success rate and patency rate were noted. Competing risk analysis was performed to demonstrate outcomes of individual atretic veins longitudinally.

RESULTS

Between 2008 and 2020, our institution diagnosed and treated 131 patients with pulmonary vein stenosis. Of these, 61 patients developed atresia of at least one pulmonary vein. In total, there were 97 atretic pulmonary veins within this group. Successful recanalization was accomplished in 47/97 (48.5%) atretic veins. No atretic pulmonary veins were successfully recanalized before 2012. The majority of veins were recanalized between 2017 and 2020-39/56 (70%). The most common intervention after recanalization was drug-eluting stent placement. At 2-year follow-up 42.6% of recanalized veins (20.6% of all atretic veins) remained patent with a median of 4 reinterventions per person.

CONCLUSIONS

Transcatheter recanalization of PVA can result in successful reestablishment of flow to affected pulmonary veins in many cases. Drug-eluting stent implantation was the most common intervention performed immediately post-recanalization. Vein patency was maintained in 42.6% of patients at 2-year follow-up from recanalization with appropriate surveillance and reintervention. Overall, only a small portion of atretic pulmonary veins underwent successful recanalization with maintained vessel patency at follow-up. Irrespective of successful recanalization, there was no detectable survival difference between the more recently treated PVA cohort and non-PVA cohort.

Post-ablation Dyspnea a Case Report to Highlight the Differential Diagnoses

The diagnosis of post-cardiac ablation pericarditis is difficult as it requires the exclusion of the more common causes of chest pain, but in the right setting, non-invasive diagnostic tools are adequate. Here we present the case of a 60-year-old man who underwent atrial fibrillation ablation and subsequently developed severe mid-sternal chest pain and dyspnea one day later without significant electrocardiographic findings, a mildly elevated troponin T, and elevation of the right hemidiaphragm. The patient was managed conservatively. A two-dimensional transthoracic echocardiogram showed no regional wall motion abnormalities, significant transvalvular gradients, but showed minimal pericardial effusion. A sniff test was negative for diaphragmatic paralysis. After the diagnosis, the patient’s symptoms resolved with non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and colchicine. This case of pericarditis after cardiac ablation highlights the possible differential diagnosis when confronted with post-ablation cardiac symptoms. Despite the classic presentation, the electrocardiogram showed no significant ST/PR changes. In the right clinical setting, non-invasive imaging may be appropriate management.

Pulmonary vein occlusion: A delayed complication following radiofrequency ablation for atrial fibrillation

This case reports demonstrates the rare but potentially serious complication of pulmonary vein stenosis and subsequent thrombosis diagnosed two years after radiofrequency ablation of the pulmonary veins for atrial fibrillation. Pulmonary vein stenosis can remain asymptomatic until significant occlusion occurs, after which it can present with a variety of symptoms, mimicking a myriad of cardiovascular and pulmonic pathologies. Early diagnosis and treatment rely on consistent follow up using appropriate diagnostic imaging modalities and is paramount in preventing severe complications.

The many faces and outcomes of pulmonary vein stenosis in early childhood

Pulmonary vein stenosis is a rare and poorly understood condition causing obstruction of the large pulmonary veins and of blood flow from the lungs to the left atrium. This results in elevated pulmonary venous pressure and pulmonary edema, pulmonary hypertension, potentially cardiac failure, and death. Clinical signs of the disease include failure to thrive, increasingly severe dyspnea, hemoptysis, respiratory difficulty, recurrent respiratory tract infections/pneumonia, cyanosis, and subcostal retractions. On chest radiograph, the most frequent finding is increased interstitial, ground-glass and/or reticular opacity. Transthoracic echocardiography with pulsed Doppler delineates the stenosis, magnetic resonance imaging and multislice computerized tomography are used for further evaluation. Interventional cardiac catherization, surgical techniques, and medical therapies have been used with varying success as treatment options.

Experience using drug-coated balloon venoplasty for acquired pulmonary vein stenosis after radiofrequency ablation

Pulmonary vein stenosis is a rare but severe complication of catheter ablation for arterial fibrillation (AF). Symptoms include dyspnea, hemoptysis, recurrent pneumonia, and pulmonary hypertension. We herein discuss a 27-year-old male patient who presented with hemoptysis and dyspnea three months after catheter ablation for AF. Computed tomography demonstrated an occluded left inferior pulmonary vein (LIPV) and left lower lung edema secondary to severe stenosis of the LIPV. The patient underwent treatment, including drug-coated balloon (DCB) venoplasty. Treatment of pulmonary vein stenosis involving percutaneous interventions with balloon angioplasty and stenting carry a high risk of restenosis. DCB therapy may be used to prevent stenosis. <Learning objective: The use of a drug-coated balloon is feasible and may provide good long-term outcomes in acquired pulmonary vein stenosis after radiofrequency ablation.>.

Anatomical changes in the pulmonary veins and left atrium after cryoballoon ablation

BACKGROUND

The anatomical changes in pulmonary veins (PVs) after cryoballoon ablation (CBA) are unclear. We aimed to determine the morphological changes in the PVs and left atrium (LA) along with the predictive factors for clinical PV stenosis.

METHODS

We analyzed data of 320 PVs from 80 patients who underwent CBA for atrial fibrillation (age: 62 ± 10 years, 59 males). All patients underwent pre- and post-procedural cardiac computed tomography. We defined clinical PV stenosis when the cross-sectional area decreased by more than 50%.

RESULTS

The average ostial PV area and LA volume decreased significantly after CBA (pre- vs post-CBA; 2.4 ± 1.0 cm² vs 2.3±1.1 cm² , P < .001, 75.0 ± 23.2 cm³ vs 70.7 ± 21.9 cm³ , P < .001, respectively). There was a significant correlation between the reduction rates of the PV area and those of LA volume (R = 0.411, P < .001). The larger preoperative PV area and greater reduction in LA volume were associated with advanced PV narrowing. Clinical PV stenosis was observed in six PVs, was more common in females (male vs female; 0.8% vs 4.8%, P = .043), and tended to be more frequent in left PVs (left PVs vs right PVs; 3.1% vs 0.6%: P = .107), irrespective of the LA volume reduction.

CONCLUSIONS

The significant reduction of the ostial PV area occurred after CBA, which correlated with the reduction rate of LA volume. The narrowing of the PV was partly produced by the LA volume reduction. Clinical PV stenosis was more common in females and tended to be more frequent in left PVs.

Percutaneous Pulmonary Vein Stenting to Treat Severe Pulmonary Vein Stenosis After Surgical Reconstruction

A 36-year-old female underwent left lower lobectomy with left atrial and left upper pulmonary vein (LUPV) reconstruction with a bovine pericardial patch for an intrathoracic pheochromocytoma. Postoperatively, she developed shortness of breath and transesophageal echocardiography demonstrated LUPV stenosis with increased velocities. Computed tomography angiogram of the chest revealed LUPV stenosis at the left atrium ostium with an area of 39 mm². Under angiographic and echocardiographic guidance, a 10 × 19 mm Omnilink Elite uncovered stent was deployed in the LUPV ostia. While reported following left atrial ablation, pulmonary vein stenting can be successful in a pulmonary vein surgically reconstructed with bovine pericardium.

Hemoptysis secondary to pulmonary vein stenosis after radiofrequency ablation for atrial fibrillation: A case report and literature review

Objectives

Pulmonary vein stenosis (PVS) is a known complication after radiofrequency ablation of atrial fibrillation (RAAF) and is often misdiagnosed owing to lack of awareness regarding PVS among noncardiologists. Misdiagnosis results in unnecessary treatment; therefore, greater understanding of PVS can improve the management of these patients.

Methods

We report the case of a 38-year-old man with a history of RAAF who presented with massive hemoptysis. His symptoms persisted despite undergoing transcatheter bronchial artery embolization on two occasions.

Results

Pulmonary computed tomography angiography revealed a completely occluded left superior pulmonary vein. Considering the patient’s history of RAAF, we diagnosed him with RAAF-induced PVS and performed left superior lobectomy after which hemoptysis did not recur.

Conclusions

Unexplained massive hemoptysis should alert clinicians regarding the possibility of RAAF-induced PVS. Balloon angioplasty and stent placement are used to treat PVS; however, their efficacy is controversial considering the high recurrence rates associated with these interventions.

Long-term outcome of percutaneous intervention for pulmonary vein stenosis after pulmonary vein isolation procedure

OBJECTIVES

Report long-term outcomes of percutaneous intervention in patients with pulmonary vein stenosis (PVS) after pulmonary vein isolation (PVI) from a single center over 16 years.

BACKGROUND

Outcome reports of percutaneous intervention for PVS resulting from PVI are limited.

METHODS

Retrospective review of all patients with PVS after PVI who underwent percutaneous intervention at the Cleveland Clinic Foundation between January 2000 and December 2016.

RESULTS

A total of 205 patients underwent cardiac catheterization for PVS during the study period. Completely occluded veins which could not be recanalized occurred in six patients. Of the remaining 199 patients, 27 (14%) were lost to follow-up, leaving 172 patients with 276 veins for analysis. Balloon angioplasty was performed in 62 veins and stent implantation in 250 (primary in 214, to treat postdilation restenosis in 36). Re-intervention occurred in 45/62 (73%) balloon-dilated veins and 45/250 (18%) stented veins. Freedom from re-intervention at 1 and 5 years was 90 and 73% following stenting versus 40 and 23% following balloon dilation (p < .001, Hazard ratio (HR) = 5.7). Veins with stent diameter ≥7 mm (n = 231) had greater freedom from re-intervention (95% at 1 year, 79% at 5 years) than veins with stents <7 mm (43% at 1 year, 9% at 5 years), p < .001. There was clear symptomatic improvement after intervention and no procedural mortality.

CONCLUSIONS

Stent implantation at ≥7 mm for PVS after PVI is associated with low rates of re-intervention, in contrast to balloon dilation and stenting with small conventional stents.

Clinical characteristics of patients with atrial fibrillation suffering from pulmonary vein stenosis after radiofrequency ablation

OBJECTIVE

Pulmonary vein stenosis (PVS) is a serious complication in patients with atrial fibrillation (AF) receiving radiofrequency catheter ablation (RFCA). We therefore examined these patients' clinical characteristics in relation to PVS occurrence.

METHOD

We retrospectively analyzed the clinical symptoms, diagnostic procedures, and treatment strategies in patients with AF who developed PVS after RFCA.

RESULTS

Among 205 patients with AF who underwent RFCA, five (2.44%) developed PVS (all men; age 44-64 years; AF history 12-60 months; 2 paroxysmal AF, 3 persistent AF). One patient underwent two RFCA sessions and the others received one. The time to PVS diagnosed by pulmonary vein computed tomography angiography (CTA) was 3 to 21 months. PVS symptoms included dyspnea and hemoptysis. Nine pulmonary veins developed PVS. Single mild PVS occurred in two asymptomatic patients and multiple PVS or single severe PVS in three symptomatic patients who underwent pulmonary vein angiography and stent placement. Symptoms in the three patients significantly improved after stent implantation; however, stent restenosis occurred 1 year later in one case.

CONCLUSION

PVS is a rare complication of RFCA for AF that can be diagnosed by CTA. Pulmonary vein stent implantation can remarkably improve the symptoms, but stent restenosis may occur.

Balloon angioplasty or stent implantation for pulmonary vein stenosis caused by fibrosing mediastinitis: a systematic review

Fibrosing mediastinitis (FM) is a very rare disease, often caused by histoplasmosis capsulatum, tuberculosis, sarcoidosis, autoimmunity and other diseases, such as IgG 4-related diseases. Fibrous structures in the mediastinum compress the pulmonary artery, pulmonary vein, superior vena cava, esophagus, trachea and cardiac vessels, leading to clinical symptoms. Drug therapeutic modality for pulmonary vein stenosis (PVS) caused by FM is palliative in essence and with limited efficacy, whereas surgical treatment causes high mortality. In recent years, catheter-based treatment to FM-caused PVS has emerged as a promising therapeutic modality, however, the safety and effectiveness of this modality remain unclear. Therefore, a systematic review on the safety and efficacy of the catheter-based treatment for PVS caused by FM was performed, in the hope to shed lights on the alternative therapeutic strategy to this fatal disease.

[Complications of the Catheter Treatment of Atrial Fibrillation: Stenosis of All Pulmonary Veins after Radiofrequency Ablation]

Radiofrequency ablation is the "gold standard" in atrial fibrillation treatment. The frequency of complications is about 3.5-3.9 %. The symptomatic pulmonary vein stenosis is one of the most severe complications. In this report we present a clinical case of stenosis of all four pulmonary veins after redo catheter ablation of atrial fibrillation in 61year-old patient, and discussion of possible causes, specific features of diagnosis, and possible approaches to treatment of this complication.

Radiologic review of acquired pulmonary vein stenosis in adults

Acquired pulmonary vein stenosis (PVS) is an uncommon occurrence in adults, but one that carries significant morbidity/mortality. PVS can be secondary to neoplastic infiltration/extrinsic compression, non-neoplastic infiltration/extrinsic compression, or iatrogenic intervention. This article: (I) reviews the common causes of acquired PVS; (II) illustrates direct and indirect cross-sectional imaging findings in acquired PVS (in order to avoid misinterpretation of these imaging findings); and (III) details the role of imaging before and after the treatment of acquired PVS.

Spontaneous massive hemothorax presenting as a late complication of stent implantation in a patient with pulmonary vein stenosis following radiofrequency ablation for atrial fibrillation

Catheter ablation for symptomatic and drug-resistant atrial fibrillation is considered as the main acquired cause of pulmonary vein stenosis in adults. Controversy currently exists about the optimal treatment approach of this entity. Stenting seems to achieve lower vessel restenosis rates than isolated balloon angioplasty. However, these techniques are not exempt from complications. We present a case of spontaneous massive haemothorax presenting as a late complication of stent implantation in a patient with pulmonary vein stenosis.

Fibrosing mediastinitis with pulmonary hypertension as a complication of pulmonary vein stenosis: A case report and review of the literature

INTRODUCTION

Fibrosingmediastinitis (FM) is caused by a proliferation of fibrous tissue in the mediastinum encasing the mediastinal viscera that results in compression of mediastinal bronchovascular structures. Pulmonary hypertension (PH) is a severe complication of FM caused by extrinsic compression of pulmonary blood vessels.

CASE PRESENTATION

Here, we present the case of a 47-year-old man who presented with a 10-year history of progressive hemoptysis and a 2-year history of shortness of breath, in whom a diagnosis of FM was made. Occlusion of the superior pulmonary veins was noted, with stenosis of the inferior pulmonary veins, leading to PH. Because the patient was a poor candidate for interventional catheterization, the preferred treatment for FM, his PH has been managed with diuretics, and he remains stable.

CONCLUSIONS

FM is a serious, potentially life-threatening condition that is best managed in specialized centers.

Severe Pulmonary Vein Stenosis Resulting From Ablation for Atrial Fibrillation

Background:

The frequency of pulmonary vein stenosis (PVS) after ablation for atrial fibrillation has decreased, but it remains a highly morbid condition. Although treatment strategies including pulmonary vein dilation and stenting have been described, the long-term impacts of these interventions are unknown. We evaluated the presentation of severe PVS, and examined the risk for restenosis after intervention using either balloon angioplasty (BA) alone or BA with stenting.

Methods:

This was a prospective, observational study of 124 patients with severe PVS evaluated between 2000 and 2014.

Results:

All 124 patients were identified as having severe PVS by computed tomography in 219 veins. One hundred two patients (82%) were symptomatic at diagnosis. The most common symptoms were dyspnea (67%), cough (45%), fatigue (45%), and decreased exercise tolerance (45%). Twenty-seven percent of patients experienced hemoptysis. Ninety-two veins were treated with BA, 86 were treated with stenting, and 41 veins were not treated. A 94% acute procedural success rate was observed and did not differ by initial management. Major procedural complications occurred in 4 of the 113 patients (3.5%) who underwent invasive assessment, and minor complications occurred in 15 patients (13.3%). Overall, 42% of veins developed restenosis including 27% of veins (n=23) treated with stenting and 57% of veins (n=52) treated with BA. The 3-year overall rate of restenosis was 37%, with 49% of BA-treated veins and 25% of stented veins developing restenosis (hazard ratio, 2.77; 95% confidence interval, 1.72–4.45; P <0.001). After adjustment for age, CHA2DS2-VASc score, hypertension, and the time period of the study, there was still a significant difference in the risk of restenosis for BA versus stenting (hazard ratio, 2.46; 95% confidence interval, 1.47–4.12; P <0.001).

Conclusions:

The diagnosis of PVS is challenging because of nonspecific symptoms and the need for dedicated pulmonary vein imaging. There is no difference in acute success by type of initial intervention; however, stenting significantly reduces the risk of subsequent pulmonary vein restenosis in comparison with BA.

Pulmonary Hypertension due to Radiofrequency Catheter Ablation (RFCA) for Atrial Fibrillation: The Lungs, the Atrium or the Ventricle?

Atrial fibrillation is the most common heart rhythm disorder in United States, characterised by rapid and irregular beating of both the atria resulting in the similar ventricular response. While rate and rhythm control using pharmacological regimens remain the primary management strategies in these patients, radiofrequency catheter ablation (RFCA) is rapidly rising as an alternative modality of treatment. Increase in the incidence of RFCA has shed light on complications associated with this procedure. Pulmonary hypertension (PH) is one of the long-term complications that has been observed postcatheter ablation. There have been multiple mechanisms which have been proposed to explain these elevated pulmonary pressures. These include the involvement of the lungs due to pulmonary vein stenosis, pulmonary vein occlusion and, rarely, pulmonary embolism. Radiofrequency catheter ablation can also lead to scarring of the atrium which can cause left atrial diastolic dysfunction leading to elevated pulmonary pressures. Recently, it was also proposed that elevated pulmonary pressure was related to the unmasking of left ventricular diastolic dysfunction occurring after this procedure. In this article, we review all the mechanisms that are associated with the development of pulmonary hypertension in patients undergoing RCFA for atrial fibrillation and the approach to diagnosis and management of such patients.

Pulmonary veins stenosis after catheter ablation of atrial fibrillation as the cause of haemoptysis: three cases and a literature review

BACKGROUND

Haemoptysis is a common clinical symptom with a complicated aetiology. Patients usually visit pulmonologists initially and are misdiagnosed due to physician ignorance regarding the rare causes of haemoptysis.

METHODS

We report three cases of haemoptysis due to pulmonary vein stenosis accompanied by catheter ablation for atrial fibrillation and review the related literature.

RESULTS

The three patients presented haemoptysis and they all had the history of catheter ablation. They received kinds of non-invasive and invasive diagnostic and therapeutic procedures. Finally they were confirmed to have pulmonary vein stenosis by either pulmonary angiography or thorax computed tomography three-dimensional reconstructions.

CONCLUSIONS

Haemoptysis could be caused by pulmonary vein stenosis secondary to catheter ablation for atrial fibrillation. Doctors should be aware of this rare aetiology.

An unusual case of acute respiratory failure in a patient with pulmonary veins stenosis late after catheter ablation of atrial fibrillation: a case report and the review of the literature

Background

Atrial fibrillation (AF) can be treated with percutaneous catheter ablation procedures into the left atrium. Pulmonary veins stenosis (PV) stenosis is a severe complication of this procedure.

Case presentation

we report a case of late hemoptysis secondary to severe PV stenosis in a man who underwent AF ablation 9 months before onset of symptoms. He presented four episodes of bleeding and developed an acute respiratory failure (ARF). Parameters of respiratory mechanics and medical investigation did not show any abnormalities. Only computed tomography (CT) angiography showed stenosis of 3 out of 4 native PVs. PV balloon dilatation in all affected PVs and a stent was implanted in 1 of the 3 PVs with full restoration of respiratory function during 1 year follow-up.

Conclusion

PV stenosis may be the underlying cause of recurrent haemoptysis after AF ablation in the presence of normal respiratory parameters. This diagnosis can be confirmed by means of CT angiography and magnetic resonance imaging can provide accurate localization of stenosis.

Pulmonary Vein Stenosis Complicating Radiofrequency Catheter Ablation: Five Case Reports and Literature Review

The aim of this study is to characterize the clinical manifestations and features of pulmonary vein stenosis (PVS) by retrospectively analyzing clinical data of patients in addition to reviewing the literature simultaneously to improve the understanding of PVS complicating radiofrequency catheter ablation and to provide evidence for early diagnosis and timely treatment.Clinical, imaging, and follow-up data of 5 patients with PVS-complicating radiofrequency catheter ablation were retrospectively analyzed between January 2012 and December 2014 in Shanghai Pulmonary Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China. Relevant studies previously reported were also reviewed.Three out of 5 patients received pulmonary angiography. The initial symptoms were not specific, presenting chest pain in 3 cases, hemoptysis in 2 cases. The average duration between radiofrequency ablation to the onset of symptoms was 5.8 months. The chest image results were consolidation and pleural effusion mainly. Veins distributed in the left lungs were mostly influenced in 4 patients, and the inferior veins in 3 patients. Cardiac ultrasound examinations showed pulmonary arterial hypertension in 2 patients. Two patients received selective bronchial artery embolization after bronchial artery radiography because of hemoptysis. One patient underwent video-assisted thoracoscopic biopsy because of the suspicion of tumor.PVS is a condition mostly undetected because of its silent manifestations and inconsistent follow-up. The accurate clinical diagnosis is very difficult. A careful review of medical history and follow-up observation may be useful for all the patients who received the radiofrequency catheter ablation to recognize PVS in the early stage.

Catheter-based intervention for pulmonary vein stenosis due to fibrosing mediastinitis: The Mayo Clinic experience

Introduction

Fibrosing mediastinitis (FM) is a rare but fatal disease characterized by an excessive fibrotic reaction in the mediastinum, which can lead to life-threatening stenosis of the pulmonary veins (PV). Catheter-based intervention is currently the only viable option for therapy. However, the current literature on how best to manage these difficult cases, especially in regards to sequential interventions and their potential complications is very limited.

Methods

We searched through a database of all patients who have undergone PV interventions at the Earl H. Wood Cardiac Catheterization Laboratory in Mayo Clinic, Rochester. From this collection, we selected patients that underwent PV intervention to relieve stenosis secondary to FM.

Results

Eight patients were identified, with a mean age of 41 years (24–59 years). Five were men, and three were women. Three patients underwent balloon angioplasty alone, and five patients had stents placed. The majority of patients had acute hemodynamic and symptomatic improvement. More than one intervention was required in five patients, four patients had at least one episode of restenosis, and four patients died within four weeks of their first PV intervention.

Conclusions

We describe the largest reported case series of catheter-based intervention for PV stenosis in FM. Although catheter-based therapy improved hemodynamics, short-term vascular patency, and patient symptoms, the rate of life-threatening complications, restenosis, and mortality associated with these interventions was found to be high. Despite these associated risks, catheter-based intervention is the only palliative option available to improve quality of life in severely symptomatic patients with PV stenosis and FM. Patients with PV stenosis and FM (especially those with bilateral disease) have an overall poor prognosis in spite of undergoing these interventions due to the progressive and recalcitrant nature of the disease. This underscores the need for further innovative approaches to manage this disease.

Simultaneous kissing stent in a patient with severe bifurcation pulmonary vein stenosis

Pulmonary vein stenosis (PVS) is a late and rare complication of pulmonary vein isolation for the treatment of atrial fibrillation. The ideal approach to the management of PVS has not yet been established, however, corrective procedures may include both surgical and percutaneous techniques. We describe the case of a complex bifurcation lesion involving the left superior pulmonary vein. The condition required percutaneous intervention using a modified kissing stent technique with bare metal stents that resulted in an excellent post-operative course, sustained symptomatic relief, and uncomplicated 1-year follow-up. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Latest advances in transseptal structural heart interventions-Percutaneous Mitral Valve Repair and Left Atrial Appendage Occlusion

Recent advances in structural heart intervention have produced increasing demand for transseptal access, which was first introduced as a diagnostic tool to directly measure left atrial pressure. Transseptal access allows safe and adequate approach to the left atrium and surrounding structures. Percutaneous transcatheter mitral valve repair using the MitraClip device is a safe and less invasive treatment for selected patients with significant mitral regurgitation, who are at high risk for surgery. This is an echocardiographic- and fluoroscopic-guided procedure requiring accurate transseptal access of the left atrium and clipping of the mitral leaflets at the precise location of their malcoaptation. Percutaneous transcatheter closure of the left atrial appendage is another novel procedure that requires transseptal access of the left atrium, followed by closure or ligation of the left atrial appendage. This catheter-based therapy has been shown to be a safe and effective alternative to long-term anticoagulant therapy for the prevention of stroke in patients with atrial fibrillation. In this article, we systematically review these novel structural heart interventions.

Management Of Pulmonary Vein Stenosis Following Catheter Ablation Of Atrial Fibrillation

There is limited literature available regarding PV (pulmonary vein) stenosis management. Starting from its incidence, subsequent follow up using imaging technologies to monitor the success and the way of managing different groups pose varied opinions. However, with newer technological advancements and better understanding of mechanism of the atrial fibrillation ablation, the incidence of PV stenosis secondary to catheter ablation is declining. This paper highlights the current trends and future of management of PV stenosis secondary to catheter ablation for atrial fibrillation.

Percutaneous pulmonary vein stenosis angioplasty complicated by rupture: successful stenting with a polytetrafluoroethylene-covered stent

A 47-year-old-man with prior pulmonary vein (PV) isolation for atrial fibrillation developed progressive shortness of breath and was found to have total occlusion of the left lower and significant stenosis in left upper PV. A ventilation/perfusion scan showed decreased left lung perfusion. Percutaneous PV stenosis angioplasty was complicated by the rupture of left lower PV with pericardial tamponade; successful stenting with a polytetrafluoroethylene-covered stent was performed. Follow-up studies at nine months showed patency of both veins with a normal ventilation perfusion scan. In this article, we will discuss acquired PV stenosis following PV isolation, percutaneous PV intervention, and the literature supporting the procedure.

The incidence, diagnosis, and management of pulmonary vein stenosis as a complication of atrial fibrillation ablation

PURPOSE

Pulmonary vein isolation (PVI) during ablation of atrial fibrillation (AF) is associated with pulmonary vein stenosis (PVS). Although the reported incidence of PVS has fallen in recent years, the precise rate of PVS is unknown. Coherent guidelines for screening and treatment of PVS are not established. We reviewed literature to investigate the incidence, diagnosis, and management of PVS as a complication of PVI.

METHODS

We reviewed 41 manuscripts that described a total of 4,615 subjects (median, 84 subjects/study).

RESULTS

The incidence of PVS after PVI reported in literature from 1999 to 2004 ranges from 0 to 44% (mean, 6.3%; median, 5.4%), whereas studies after 2004 report an incidence of 0-19% (mean, 2%; median, 3.1%; p < 0.001). PVS symptoms typically occur with reduction of lung perfusion by 20-25%. Variable criteria exist for diagnosis of PVS by magnetic resonance imaging, computed tomography, and perfusion imaging. The restenosis rate for treatment with balloon angioplasty ranges from 30 to 87% (mean, 60%; median, 47%), compared with immediate stenting that ranges from 14 to 57% (mean, 34%; median, 33%).

CONCLUSIONS

Recent peer-reviewed articles suggest that PVI carries a 3-8% risk of developing PVS, but they likely underestimate the incidence of PVS, as specific screening and diagnostic guidelines are not established. Imaging modalities should be used to screen patients after ablation of AF since early recognition of PVS improves treatment outcomes. Treatment with angioplasty and stent placement can improve symptoms and lung perfusion but the benefit of treatment with immediate stent placement remains controversial. It is critical to maintain a high clinical index of suspicion for PVS in at-risk individuals to ensure timely detection and treatment.

Nonpharmacologic stroke prevention in atrial fibrillation

Atrial fibrillation is associated with significant mortality and morbidity. The burden of morbidity in atrial fibrillation is mostly due to stroke, one of the major causes of death and the leading cause of long-term disability. Although highly effective in prevention of thromboembolic stroke, several factors limit utilization of chronic oral anticoagulation therapy. Eradication of atrial fibrillation and restoration of effective atrial contraction by surgical methods, or recently, by percutaneous catheter ablation methods, are two attractive approaches for stroke prophylaxis. Surgical exclusion of the left atrial appendage has generated considerable interest in the past decades and it is now performed routinely during mitral valve surgery in many centers. Recently, minimally invasive and percutaneous methods for the exclusion of left atrial appendage have been introduced. Currently, these approaches are being evaluated in ongoing trials. This review will discuss the current status of nonpharmacologic methods in the prevention of stroke in atrial fibrillation.

Angioplasty of acquired pulmonary vein stenosis using covered stent

One of the most serious complications post-catheter ablation of atrial fibrillation is the development of pulmonary vein stenosis. Controversy currently exists about the optimal treatment approach. The use of balloons and larger stents (~10 mm) results in more optimal outcome than just balloon angioplasty alone; however, even with stent implantation, recurrent restenosis may occur in 30 to 50% of patients. We report the case of a 28-year-old man who developed recurrent left inferior pulmonary vein stenosis following radiofrequency ablation for atrial fibrillation. This was initially stented with good result but soon after developed restenosis and required balloon angioplasty. Following the third episode of restenosis, stenting of the pulmonary vein was performed using a covered stent. The pulmonary vein has remained patent for the last 5 years.

Exercise-induced haemoptysis: a thoroughbred cause?

The authors report a novel case of exercise-induced haemoptysis with an unexpected underlying pathology. The report discusses the case and provides a pragmatic overview of the diagnosis and management of the pulmonary vein stenosis.

Pulmonary Vein Stenting for Atrial Fibrillation Ablation-Induced Pulmonary Vein Stenosis

Pulmonary vein stenosis (PVS) is a known complication of pulmonary vein isolation in the treatment of atrial fibrillation. Patients with PVS can present with a great variety of symptoms. Clinicians should have a low threshold to evaluate for this potentially morbid and treatable condition. PVS can be treated by stenting affected pulmonary veins via transseptal access to the left atrium and use of bare metal biliary stents.